Flower exports from Kenya reached record levels in 2007, according to data just released by the Kenya Horticultural Development Programme.

More than 80 different lines are now exported from east African country with roses accounting for more than two-thirds of total floriculture export earnings and 73 per cent of exports by volumes. Mixed bouquets were the fastest growing category and plant cuttings the highest value at $49 a kilo. And flowers grown by smallholders accounted for three per cent of the total by volume.

“The growth in demand for ready-made bouquets is providing many new opportunities for small-holders,” said Tabitha Runyora, a market analyst on the US-Aid funded programme. “Our estimates of the percentage contribution of smallholders to each variety, and the net return to growers is approximate, but indicates a national income figure of at least KSH150 million (£1.2m). On top of this KHDP-assisted growers typically sell a similar amount on the local market which puts total national income from export and domestic sales at KSH300m.” The fast-growing local market for roadside sales of plants outside nurseries is estimated to push the total up to KSH650m.

Kenya is also doing well considering EU demand for imported roses is growing at less than two per cent, its own exports have grown at more than 10 per cent in the last three years as production in Europe has become more expensive and less competitive. Demand for imported bouquets from sources such as Kenya is growing at five to 10 per cent as labour costs associated with bouquet preparation in Europe rise. “Improvements in quality of Kenyan roses and bouquets have also contributed significantly to these high rates of growth,” said Runyora.

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